The Government Guidelines for Enhanced Communications define the principles and practices for government communications in situations requiring enhanced communications and in normal conditions and for communications during incidents. The Guidelines also give practical advice on communicative preparedness and measures to be taken in different situations. Separate guidelines on communications in emergencies will be drawn up in the course of 2020.

The underlying premise of all activities consists of reliability and trust. The authorities must prepare for situations that arise rapidly, are created and are exceptional. They must be prepared to swiftly use different channels of communication in flexible ways and, where necessary, in several languages. Government organisations must allow flexible reallocation of resources and personnel within and across different administrative branches. We must all pay particular attention to preparedness and risk management. Management, communications and efficient flow of information at all levels of government form a close-knit unit. Moreover, the authorities must be able to monitor and assess communications systematically.

Information and operating environments are exposed to new kinds of threats, such as hybrid interference, including information influence activities. To prevent rumours and to reduce the risk of false information being deliberately disseminated, the authorities must provide reliable information in a timely manner in different situations. At the same time, we must make sure that correct information is readily available and accessible.